Former Philadelphia labor union president, Brian Burrows, has been sentenced to four years in prison for his involvement in the embezzlement of over $600,000 of union funds. Burrows, 64, of Mount Laurel, New Jersey, was also ordered to forfeit nearly $136,000 and will be required to pay restitution at a later date. The sentencing took place in federal court in Reading, Pennsylvania.
Burrows, along with John “Johnny Doc” Dougherty, the union’s longtime business manager, was convicted in December on charges of conspiracy, embezzlement, and other counts. Prosecutors revealed that the embezzled funds were used for various personal expenses, including home renovations, concerts, groceries, and even a cookie tray for a relative’s baby’s christening.
During the court proceedings, Burrows addressed the judge for 45 minutes, attempting to portray himself as a responsible steward of union funds. He claimed to have put thousands of dollars back into the pockets of union members through pension benefits, healthcare, and profit-sharing checks. However, Assistant U.S. Attorney Bea Witzleben noted the absence of an apology and criticized Burrows for implying that saving union electricians money justified stealing from them.
U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Schmehl condemned Burrows for his “egregious breach” of trust and for failing to address the wrongdoing of others within the union. The judge highlighted Burrows’ disregard for warning signs from auditors and other union officials.
Dougherty, 63, who served as the union’s business manager, is scheduled to be sentenced on July 11. He was previously convicted of bribery for keeping a city council member, Bobby Henon, on the union payroll to maintain control over construction jobs. Henon is currently serving a 3 1/2-year prison term.
